Can Australian Sport Ever Be Environmentally Sustainable?

A 2025 article in The Conversation examines whether Australian sport can achieve environmental sustainability amid increasing climate pressures. Research shows 85% of adult Australians participated in sport or physical activity in the past year, with 11 million adults and 3 million children involved in organized activities. However, extreme weather events including heatwaves, bushfire smoke, floods and storms are disrupting play, affecting athlete health, and straining club finances. The federal government's National Climate Risk Assessment largely omits sport despite its significance as community infrastructure. While $50 million Game On grants support solar installations and facility upgrades, experts argue more comprehensive approaches are needed including climate risk assessments, governance training, data systems, and partnerships. The article highlights specific examples like the Australian Open tennis tournament facing delays from extreme heat, rain and smoke in recent years, and the 2025 Australian Open golf tournament dealing with course damage from torrential rain. Researchers from Victoria University found many sporting organizations lack the governance and leadership systems needed for sustained environmental initiatives.